
Driver shortage
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
The Driver Shortage Isn’t the Problem… Finding the Right Driver Is.
For the last few years, the transport and recovery industry has been talking about one thing more than any other – the driver shortage.
Every conference, networking event and industry discussion seems to come back to the same challenge.
“We can’t find drivers.”
But after working with operators across the UK, I’ve come to a different conclusion.
The real problem isn’t the shortage of drivers.
It’s finding the right drivers.
The Cost of the Wrong Recruitment
Many businesses are now so desperate to fill vacancies that they recruit the first available person rather than the right person.
Unfortunately, that can lead to:
Higher accident rates
Increased vehicle damage
Poor customer service
Failed compliance audits
Driver turnover within weeks or months
Increased insurance costs
Damage to your company’s reputation
Replacing one unsuitable driver can cost thousands of pounds once recruitment, training, lost productivity and management time are taken into account.
Good Drivers Still Exist
Despite what many people believe, there are still excellent drivers available.
The challenge is reaching them.
The best professional drivers are often already employed. They aren’t scrolling through job boards every evening. They’re found through industry contacts, trusted recommendations and specialist recruitment networks.
That’s why traditional recruitment methods are becoming less effective.
Recovery & Transport Need Specialist Recruitment
Recovery operators, trade plate drivers, vehicle delivery specialists, multi-car transporters and HGV professionals all require different skill sets.
Experience matters.
Professionalism matters.
Attitude matters.
The cheapest recruitment option is rarely the best one.
Introducing the KEC Professional Driver Network
At Karen Ellis Consulting Ltd, I’m building a nationwide network of professional, vetted transport and recovery personnel.
Whether you’re looking for:
Vehicle Collection & Delivery Drivers
Trade Plate Drivers
3.5T Drivers
HGV Drivers
Recovery Operators
Multi-Car Transport Drivers
Roadside Patrols & Technicians
…I’ll be connecting quality people with quality businesses.
The aim isn’t simply to fill vacancies.
It’s to help businesses recruit drivers who stay, perform and represent their company professionally.
Looking for Work?
If you’re an experienced transport or recovery professional looking for your next opportunity, I’d love to hear from you.
Likewise, if your business is struggling to recruit reliable drivers, let’s have a conversation.
Together, we can build stronger teams, improve service standards and support the future of the industry.
About Karen Ellis Consulting Ltd
Karen Ellis Consulting Ltd provides specialist consultancy to the transport, vehicle logistics and recovery sectors, including operational support, control room optimisation, APEX training, network onboarding, compliance guidance and specialist recruitment.
Visit karenellisconsultingltd.com to learn more or register your interest in the KEC Professional Driver Network.




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